This morning, I was asked to give a stress management briefing. Here is the outline that I used as talking points:
Stress Management Briefing
1. Welcome and Comments
2. Key Message: Effective stress management can reduce the effects of turbulence in your life.
· Describe Turbulence
3. Stress is Normal
· Everyone experiences stress
· Stress is the body’s response to the changes in our lives and to the threats to our safety and our self-esteem
· Common symptoms of stress include:
o A fast heartbeat.
o A headache.
o A stiff neck and/or tight shoulders.
o Back pain.
o Fast breathing.
o Sweating, and sweaty palms.
o An upset stomach, nausea, or diarrhea.
4. Stress is Controllable
· Immediate Response
o Respond to Activating Events
o Keep Things in Perspective
· Take Care of Yourself
o Remind yourself that the way you are feeling is normal
o Pray
o Take care of Physical Needs.
o Focus on the mission at hand.
o Stay tied in with buddies in your unit;
o Seek Help.
· Help Others
o Charities
o Church
5. Stress is Shared
· Others have Stress
· Talk to Them
6. Key Message: Effective stress management can reduce the effects of turbulence in your life.